Epsom1-2 set to clash again in Irish Derby

VODAFONE Derby hero Sir Percy is a 5-2 shot with Cashmans to land the Irish equivalent at the Curragh in four weeks time.

Cashmans have installed unlucky Epsom fourth Hala Bek as 2-1 favourite in the Budweiser-sponsored classic on July 2, with French Der by victor Darsi at 6-1. Should Sir Percy go to Ireland he could face Dragon Dancer, the horse he collared on the line at Epsom.

His jockey Darryll Holland believes the Curragh would suit the Geoff Wragg-trained maiden much better than Epsom did.

“He’s very much a galloper. He’s got that in his pedigree. The Curragh would suit him. It’s a nice stiff track and he’d be able to get a good position there,” said Holland.

“I think ultimately he’d go a bit further and he could be a Leger horse.”

Despite his agonising defeat, Holland admitted he would have settled for the runner-up spot before the race.

“I thought he’d won. He’d been contesting quite nice races and he’s improved with every run.

“He’s taken on good company and I knew he wouldn’t disgrace himself. To be honest if anybody had said would you take second I probably would.”

Connections of Darsi admit they have the Irish Derby under consideration but no decision has yet been made.

“We’re thinking about the Irish Derby and the Grand Prix de Paris, which seem the logical objectives, and we should know a bit more in a few days,” said Georges Rimaud, racing manager for the horse’s owner the Aga Khan.

Darsi, trained by Alain de Royer-Dupre was reported in good shape following his three-quarters of a length win over Best Name in the hands of Christophe Soumillon.

“He came out of the race fine and ate up all his feed,” Rimaud continued.

“He’s sound, going well, and there are no problems.”

Budweiser Irish Derby betting:

Cashmans: 2-1 Hala Bek, 5-2 Sir Percy, 11-2 Dylan Thomas, 6-1 Darsi, 7-1 Dragon Dancer, 12-1 Best Alibi, 20-1 Art Deco, 7-2 Visindar (with a run).